What happens during an ENG/VNG test?
During a VNG test, eye movements are recorded by an infrared video camera. The patient wears goggles with a lens that is connected to the computer for recording the data. One test evaluates the movement of the eyes as they follow a moving target. Another observes eye movements as the head is positioned in different directions. During the caloric test, warm or cold air is circulated in the ear canal. The temperature change stimulates the inner ear in order to test the eye-movement (nystagmus) response. The examiner may ask the patient to perform some mental tasks during the test, such as counting backward or thinking of names. These activities keep the mind busy and alert so that valid test results are obtained. The Minneapolis Clinic of Neurology performs an audiometry (hearing) test along with the VNG test. Total testing time is usually 1 hour to 1-½ hours. Most patients feel about the same afterward; however, we recommend that you have a relative or friend along to drive you home, as
